FROM MIJIYAWA BABA-UTHMAN,MINNA
The National President of North Central Women Association (NCWA),Dr. Maryam Abu-Goodman,has described women as the backbone of every society stressing that they should be accorded the deserving respect at all times.
She noted that women as a nurturers and caregivers and force behind familial stability, yet " in many parts of the world,including in the North Central Nigeria,their voice go unheard".
Addressing participants at the maiden stakeholders meeting of the North Central Women Association, (NCWA), held at the Shehu Musa Yar'adua international Centre in Abuja, Dr Maryam Abu-Goodman observed that their potentials remain untaped.
According to Dr. Abu-Goodman,it is time the narrative should be change and " it is time to ignite the passion for empowerment within every woman and girl, breathing life into our dreams and aspirations"
She observed that the North Central region of Nigeria live in rich ,resources and diverse opportunities stating that empowering women and girls is not just about economic growth.
" It is about cultivating a society where every individual, regardless of gender, is free to realize their full potential.
" As we look around us, it becomes clear that empowering women has far-reaching benefits. When women thrive, families thrive. When families thrive, communities prosper. And when communities prosper,our society flourishes as a whole" she asserted
She reflected on the barriers that continue to hinder our progress noting that many of the girls from the North Central region were denied access to quality education because of their gender.
These barrier, according to her not only stall their individual growth,but they also hold back our communal advancement adding that education is transformative which equips women and girls with the the tools they need to shape their futures and contribute to nation- building.
" It is our shared responsibility to ensure that every girl in the North Central Nigeria has access to quality education leading to well-rounded development.
" Moreover economic empowerment is crucial. We must strive to create more opportunities for women in the workforces.
"When women are given the chance to Participate in the economy,we witness innovation, creativity,and a ripple effect of benefits that extends beyond mere Financial gain.
" By supporting women enterpreneurs and forstering an environment where their businesses can thrive,we are planting seeds of change that will grow for generations " she noted.
She Posited that empowerment is not solely about education and economic advancement, stressing that it also encompasses social and Political participation .
Women,Dr Maryam Abu-Goodman pointed out are underrepresented in leadership roles,from local govenance to national politics,which she maintained that it is vital to advocate for greater representation of women in decision-making prpcess.
Adding " When women have a seat at the table,they can advocate for issues that matter to our communities health care, education, security among other
" Furthermore,we need to challenge and change the societal norms that pertuate discrimination and inequality. It begins with raising awareness and amplifying the voices of our women and girls.
We must engage men as allies in this journey toward empowerment. Together,we can dismantle the stereotypes that bind us and Forster a culture of respect and equality" she stated.
Maryam Abu-Goodman then urged every critical stakeholders from the Six North Central States to join hands vital mission and be commited towards building an inclusive environment where the women and girls of North Central Nigeria can thrive.
